When is it acceptable to use passive voice in technical writing?

Using passive voice in technical writing can be acceptable in certain contexts, particularly when clarity is at risk. This is often the case when the focus needs to be on the action or the result of an action rather than who is performing the action. For example, in scientific writing or reports, it might be more important to emphasize the results of an experiment or a process rather than the person conducting it.

While passive voice can create a more formal tone in some contexts, overusing it can lead to vague sentences that may confuse the reader. Therefore, it is accepted to use passive voice sparingly and only when it serves to enhance clarity rather than detract from it. Understanding when to use passive voice makes for more effective technical writing, as it allows the writer to choose the best structure that communicates their message with maximum impact.